Is Anshul Kamboj the Next Big Thing in Indian Cricket?

Karnal, July 20 (NationPress) The family and coach of Haryana pacer Anshul Kamboj are filled with pride as he joins India's Test squad in England as a cover ahead of the fourth Test at Old Trafford in Manchester, commencing on Wednesday.

On Sunday, Star Sports announced Anshul's inclusion in the touring squad as a backup for injured pacers Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep, raising questions about their availability for the fourth Test.

For Anshul’s family, the news marked a joyous occasion. His brother, Sanyam Kamboj, expressed the overwhelming emotion that filled their home upon hearing the announcement. “We are extremely happy, and the entire family is celebrating this achievement. Words can’t capture our joy for his selection in the Indian team. He dedicated countless hours at the academy, only returning home for sleep,” he told IANS.

The dedication shown by Anshul and his family highlights the relentless focus that has propelled him through Indian cricket's ranks. With rigorous practice at the local academy and unwavering commitment to the sport, Anshul has become an inspiration to those around him.

His coach, Satish Rana, who has played a pivotal role in Anshul’s early development, shared in the joy. “This is a proud moment for us. I recall his childhood days when we vowed to develop him into a remarkable player and an even better person. Anshul is living that promise and remains dedicated to cricket. Our goal has been achieved today,” Rana reflected, reminiscing about the years of hard work and guidance that have culminated in this selection.

The 24-year-old Anshul is known as a robust right-arm fast bowler, capable of producing both swift pace and sharp bounce. He was part of the India A squad that played in two unofficial Tests prior to the England Test series. In the second match at Northampton, he took four wickets, including two in a single over during the second innings.

Additionally, he made a valuable contribution with the bat, forming an unbeaten 149-run partnership with Tanush Kotian, which helped the team secure a draw.

Last year, Kamboj garnered attention for his remarkable performance in the Ranji Trophy, where he captured all 10 wickets in a single innings against Kerala at Lahli, making him only the third bowler in Ranji Trophy history to achieve such a feat, joining the ranks of Bengal’s Premangsu Chatterjee (1956-57) and Rajasthan’s Pradeep Somasundaram (1985-86).

Overall, Kamboj ended the previous Ranji season with 34 wickets in six matches, underscoring his significant impact in India’s premier red-ball competition.

As of now, England leads the series 2-1 following a dramatic 22-run victory at Lord's, sealed in the final session of the last day.